Culture & Buddhism

The Spiritual Heart of Myanmar

Myanmar, along with Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia, is one of the centers of Theravada Buddhism — the oldest surviving Buddhist tradition, based on the original teachings of the historical Buddha Siddhartha Gautama. About 87% of the population are Buddhists, and Buddhism is not just a religion — it is the foundation of the entire society, culture, ethics, and daily life.

Monks & Monasteries — The Backbone of Society

Myanmar has over 500,000 monks and 75,000 nuns — in a population of 54 million. Almost every Burmese man spends time as a monk at least once in his life, usually as a youth during the Shin Pyu ceremony (novice ordination), one of the most important rituals in a Burman’s life, comparable to confirmation or bar mitzvah.

Every morning before sunrise, monks in their saffron robes walk barefoot through the streets collecting alms: rice, curry, fruit, money. This daily ritual is not begging — it is a mutual act of generosity. The monks give laypeople the opportunity to earn merit by giving. The givers thus come closer to a better next life. This concept of “Merit Making” permeates the entire Burmese society and explains why Burmese are generous despite poverty and why the country has the highest donation rate in the world despite its economic situation.

Pagodas, Stupas & the Million

Myanmar is estimated to have over a million pagodas — from the massive golden Shwedagon in Yangon to the tiny village pagoda in the rice field. Pagodas and stupas are not just religious structures, but also merit investments: Every family saves for the construction or restoration of a pagoda, as it brings enormous merit for this and all future lives.

Nat Spirit Cult

In addition to Buddhism, many Burmese practice the Nat belief — the worship of the 37 official Nat spirits that reside in trees, mountains, rivers, and houses. Mount Popa near Bagan is the most important Nat shrine. The worship of the Nats — with offerings of coconuts, flowers, rice, and alcohol — coexists peacefully with Buddhism, a fascinating religious syncretism that sets Myanmar apart from other Buddhist countries.

Showing Respect — How to Do It Right

Myanmar is a tolerant country, and people forgive tourists many faux pas with a smile. But respect for Buddhism is non-negotiable. Those who follow the rules below show respect and are rewarded with even more openness:

In Temples and Pagodas

• Remove shoes and socks: In EVERY religious building and on the entire temple grounds. No exceptions, no discussion. The ground may be hot, wet, or dirty — that's part of it.
• Cover shoulders and knees: No shorts, tank tops, off-the-shoulder tops, or revealing clothing in temples. Many temples lend Longyi skirts at the entrance (free of charge).
• Never point feet at Buddha: Feet are considered the most impure body part. Never sit with legs outstretched in front of a Buddha statue. Bend knees sideways or sit cross-legged.
• Do not touch Buddha statues: Unless explicitly allowed (e.g., when applying gold leaf in certain areas).
• Photography: Allowed in most temples, but never use flash and never take disrespectful selfie poses in front of Buddha statues.

Towards Monks

• Women must not touch monks: Not even accidental contact — monks actively avoid it. When handing over items: place them on the table, the monk will pick them up.
• Speaking to monks: Is certainly allowed and welcome! Many monks enjoy conversations in English — they like to practice the language. Photographing after a friendly inquiry.
• During alms collection: If you encounter a monk procession in the morning and wish to give something: place rice or food in the alms bowl. Money is also acceptable. The monk will not thank you — he gives you the opportunity to earn merit.

In Everyday Life

• Do not touch the head: The head is considered the most sacred body part. Do not pat anyone — especially not children — on the head.
• Thanaka: The yellowish-white paste on the cheeks of many Burmese (especially women and children) is Thanaka — a natural cosmetic made from ground tree bark, serving as sunscreen, skincare, and beauty product. A sign of Burmese identity.
• Longyi: The wrap-around skirt worn by almost all Burmese (men and women) is not a folklore garment but everyday clothing. Buying and wearing a Longyi at the market is appreciated by locals as a respectful gesture.